HARTLEPOOL UNITED dropped into the League Two relegation places as they slumped to a woeful 2-0 home defeat to Barnet.

Newport’s win over Accrington sees the Exiles jump over Pools, putting them two points in front with two games remaining.

Victory for Barnet, under caretaker boss Rossi Eames was only their second win in 13 games.

But they controlled the game throughout against a side lacking in confidence, belief and ability.

The crowd turned on manager Dave Jones, chairman Gary Coxall and the players as the game came to a poor close. 

John Akinde was denied an opener on 12 minutes, as his angled header was tipped over for a corner.

From the set-piece Michael Nelson, the Barnet skipper, fired a shot against the post on 13 minutes, while Jack Taylor’s goalbound shot was defleted wide.

Nathan Thomas got Pools’ first shot on target on 64 minutes, failing to test keeper Josh Vickers.

And the Bees went ahead on 66 minutes when Akinde turned and powerfully fired an angled shot past keeper Joe Fryer.

Simeon Akinola made it two on 71 minutes, the Bees racing away down the left side and Jamal Campbell-Ryce setting up the substitute.

Akinde also missed a penalty, Fryer saving his weak spot kick on 81 minutes.

Pools vice president Jeff Stelling called on manager Dave Jones to be sacked on Sky Sports after the defeat. He also said he would stand down from his position if it helped the situation.